Beheneth-30

What is Beheneth-30?

Beheneth-30 is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant produced by ethoxylating behenyl alcohol, a long-chain fatty alcohol derived from behenic acid in sources like rapeseed oil. Chemically, it features 30 ethylene oxide units attached to the alcohol, creating a hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tail. This structure allows it to reduce surface tension in formulations. Commonly found in shampoos, body washes, conditioners, and emulsion-based products like creams and lotions, it functions by forming micelles to lift dirt and oils during cleansing, stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions for smooth textures, and aiding mild foaming. Its high molecular weight contributes to gentleness compared to shorter-chain surfactants.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Provides effective yet gentle cleansing by forming micelles that remove impurities without stripping skin.

Stabilizes emulsions in creams and lotions for consistent, non-separating textures.

Supports mild foaming in shampoos and washes, enhancing user experience.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking mild cleansers for daily use.
Those with known allergies to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
People with skin preferring non-comedogenic formulas.
People sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients in rare cases.
Users of emulsion products like moisturizers needing stable blends.
Individuals avoiding synthetic surfactants altogether.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by environmental health assessments.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Beheneth-30

What does Beheneth-30 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse by micelle formation, emulsifies oil-water mixes, and provides mild foam.

Is Beheneth-30 safe for sensitive skin?

It carries a low hazard rating and is considered mild among surfactants.

Does Beheneth-30 cause breakouts?

It has a non-comedogenic rating, suitable for acne-prone skin.